scale
Fretboard diagram
C# lydian diminished scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized C# lydian diminished scale yields a mysterious chord family combining the ethereal brightness of Lydian with the darkness of a minor third. The chords from C# lydian diminished are C# minor, D# major, E augmented, G diminished, G# major, A# diminished, C minor. The minor tonic with a raised fourth creates a neo-classical atmosphere — ancient and modern at once. These chords are effective for composing passages that feel mystical and ambiguous. Commonly used in Film Scores, Neo-Classical, Fusion. Notable players include Danny Elfman, Bela Bartok.
The C# lydian diminished scale has the following degrees: 1 2 ♭3 ♯4 5 6 7.
Intervals: W-H-3H-H-W-W-H.
Diatonic chords: C# minor, D# major, E augmented, G diminished, G# major, A# diminished, C minor.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C# minor |
| ii | D# major |
| iii | E augmented |
| IV | G diminished |
| V | G# major |
| vi | A# diminished |
| vii° | C minor |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C# minor) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (D# major) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (E augmented) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (G diminished) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (G# major) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (A# diminished) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (C minor) is the diminished — the most tense, rarely used alone, usually leading to the I.
This page focuses on the harmonic content — the chords built from each degree of the C# lydian diminished scale. For fretboard patterns and fingering guides, see the scale page.
Use the interactive harmonizer above to explore triads, seventh chords, and chord voicings for composing with the C# lydian diminished scale on guitar.
lydian diminished is the Related to 4th mode of Harmonic Minor. View C# Harmonic minor scale
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over m(Maj7), mMaj7#11 chords. A specialized color for neo-classical and cinematic passages.